Arts and Crafts of Hawaii

Art from Hawaii is very similar to the art of other Pacific Islanders and they believed that each undertaking was a test of self and dedication to their culture and religion.

The natives had neither metal nor woven cloth so we find a limited range of art, as with most other Polynesians wood was the main medium used although they did produce some rock art.

Tikis, totems and canoes are the most common carvings. Smaller carvings of gods, people and toys were made, with some figurines fitted with human teeth and hair which gave them magical power.

Tikis are spiritual figures who use their big, scary mouths and menacing expressions to frighten away evil. Their headdresses vary and have different meanings according to the shape.

It is believed that craftsman could harness the mana (power or spirit) of the gods and in turn, thereby appeasing the entities and creating pono (righteousness).

Hulu manu, or feather work, was used to create beautiful and colourful adornments designed specifically for the adornment of distinguished high-ranking Hawaiian chiefs.

Bark cloth made from kapa which was pounded into strips, which were then sewn together to create the area needed.

If the material was to become blankets, canoe sails or muumuu cloth; bamboo or wood stamps dipped in natural dye were then used to create intricate geometric patterns repeated over the material.

The material was also used as cordage for fishing or carrying nets.

The people mastered the art of standing on a surfboard around a 1000 years ago with both Royalty and Commoners practicing the sport.

In fact in the Kings used surfing as a way of showing prowess and skill to their subjects thus reinforcing their status.

The kings used to ride huge "olo" balsa boards reserved only for them which were 18-25 ft in length, whilst the rest of the population had to ride smaller "alaia" surfboards.

Traditional dance was used to retell history and genealogy before written records existed, and to appease the gods.

The well known hula includes not just hula dance, but percussion and chanting.

Hula dancers would make their own percussion instruments and, often, their own costumes for performances.

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